Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. The systems include adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies....http://www.google.com/patents/US7955418?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US7955418 - Systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds or odors associated with same

Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. The systems include adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies.

Images(6)

Claims(25)

1. An adsorbent for adsorbing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds, comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer; and

wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating; and

an indicator for indicating the presence of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds.

3. The adsorbent of claim 1, wherein said indicator is colored, and is adapted to decrease in color or intensity as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds are removed.

4. The adsorbent according to claim 1, wherein said adsorbing core particles are selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: activated carbon, an inorganic oxide, a compound having ion exchange capacity, an ion exchange resin, and a chemical deodorizer.

5. An adsorbent for adsorbing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds, comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer,

wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating, and

wherein said intermediate layer comprises a metal compound and a water-soluble organic material disposed between the core particles and the porous coating.

6. The adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5, wherein said outer layer consists only of a porous coating.

7. The adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5, wherein said outer layer comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a fluororesin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, a polyester resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyolefin resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polysulfone resin, an acrylic resin, a cellulose resin, a vinyl chloride resin, a polyacetal resin, a polyurethane resin and a copolymer or derivative thereof.

8. The adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5, wherein said outer layer comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhexafluoropropylene, polydifluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl fluoride, and a copolymer or derivative thereof.

9. The adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5, wherein said porous coating has a thickness of about 0.01 μm to about 1,000 μm.

10. The adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5,, wherein said porous coating has an average pore diameter of about 0.01 μm to about 500 μm.

11. The adsorbent according claim 1 or claim 5, wherein said porous coating has a porosity of about 3% to about 90%.

12. A method for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) metabolites, comprising contacting said metabolites with an adsorbent, said absorbent comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer; and

wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) metabolites are produced by an individual receiving dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) treatment.

14. A method for removing odors associated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, comprising exposing said odors to an adsorbent, said absorbent comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer; and

wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating.

15. A clean air member for removal of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds comprising the adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5.

16. A clean air supply assembly for removal of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds comprising the adsorbent according to claim 1 or claim 5.

17. An apparatus for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds from the exhaust outlet of a medical respiratory ventilator, wherein said apparatus comprises:

a gas scavenging device comprising an adsorbent, said adsorbent comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises absorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odor associated with said compounds:

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer,

wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating, and

wherein said gas scavenging device is connected to said exhaust outlet.

18. A face mask for reducing exposure of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds comprising an adsorbent, said adsorbent comprising:

an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer,

wherein said inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles;

wherein said adsorbing core particles adsorb dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds;

wherein said intermediate layer contacts said inner layer and said outer layer, wherein said outer layer comprises a porous coating.

19. A face mask for reducing exposure of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or the odors associated with said dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds comprising:

an outer shield layer comprising a synthetic fiber;

a copper layer comprising a fiber and powdered copper;

a carbon layer comprising a fiber and activated carbon;

a chemical layer comprising a fiber and one or more, odor absorbing chemicals; and

a facial layer comprising a synthetic fiber.

20. The face mask according to claim 19, wherein said face mask comprises an exhale valve.

21. The face mask according to claim 19, wherein said face mask is a duckbill mask.

22. A method according to claim 12 or claim 14, wherein said adsorbent further comprises an indicator for indicating the presence of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein said indicator comprises permanganate.

24. The method according to claim 22, wherein said indicator is colored, and is adapted to decrease in color or intensity as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds are removed.

25. A method according to claim 12 or claim 14, wherein said adsorbing core particles are selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: activated carbon, an inorganic oxide, a compound having ion exchange capacity, an ion exchange resin, and a chemical deodorizer.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the U.S. National Phase under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International

Application No. PCT/US2006/035321, filed Sep. 11, 2006 (published as WO 2007/033083A1 and herein incorporated by reference), which claims priority to United States Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 60/716,271; 60/716,336; 60/716,278; and 60/716,369, all of which were filed Sep. 12, 2005, and are herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to materials for facilitating the administration of DMSO and associated compounds. In some embodiments, these materials comprises adsorbents for the removal of the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism or degradation of DMSO and associated compounds. In other embodiments, these materials comprise clean air members and fabrics that absorb odors or compounds. In further embodiments, these materials comprise a clean air supply assembly for removing odors and compounds. In yet other embodiments, these materials comprises indicators to reveal the presence or absence of DMSO and associated compounds.

2. Description of the Related Art

Odors and chemicals resulting from the treatment of patients with DMSO and related compounds can be so oppressive as to diminish the effectiveness and receptiveness of the medical staff. Such odors may be likened to the smell of rotten eggs. New procedures are emerging which require the treatment of seriously ill persons by using far larger volumes of DMSO than at present. The resulting highly oppressive odors may emanate from any part of the patient's body. The capture of these odors can be crucial to the success of the new medical procedures.

At present, Applicant believes that there is no known effective method practiced for the removal of these noxious odors. Previous odor collecting disposables containing activated carbon for other applications have been directed toward specific bodily areas and fluids, but not for removal of metabolites of DMSO. In addition, the need for compact, easily positioned air cleaning devices has not been fully addressed. Currently, the intravenous administration of DMSO has been limited by side effects associated with the noxious odors. As DMSO becomes a much more routine drug of choice for the treatment of seriously ill or injured patients, the success of these treatment methods may well rest on the availability of highly effective air cleaning devices for the protection of the medical staff and visitors. In addition, at present, the only method known to Applicant for detection of these odorous compounds is human olfaction which can be undependable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is a need for compositions, devices, and methods for the removal of DMSO metabolites and related compounds which will remove these chemicals and/or their noxious odors, as well as indicators to determine the presence of these compounds.

The phrases “DMSO associated compounds”, “associated compounds”, or “related compounds” as used herein shall be given their ordinary meaning and shall include degradation compounds, derivatives, precursors, and metabolites of DMSO, such as methylsulfonylmethane (MSM or DMSO2) and dimethyl sulfide or methylthiomethane (DMS).

Several embodiments of present invention relate to materials and methods for the removal of odors and chemicals resulting from the treatment of patients with DMSO and other compounds and chemicals. Also provided are modified polyamines, odor capturing fabrics which comprise these modified polyamines, items manufactured from these fabrics and methods of manufacture and use of the fabrics.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an indicator for DMSO associated compounds, its method of manufacture, and an apparatus including the indicating material.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a device to purify the air at a DMSO delivery or metabolism site. For example, a clean air device that removes DMSO metabolites and/or DMSO odors may be well-suited for hospital rooms where a patient is receiving DMSO or in a room where a patient is recovering after receiving DMSO therapy. In one embodiment, the clean air device comprises a portable, collapsible, adjustably directable clean air delivery supply assembly and enclosure for use in DMSO treated medical patient environments to provide localized clean air free of the odors, DMS, and/or compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and DMSO associated compounds, including, but not limited to, hydrogen sulfide and potentially methyl mercaptan.

In one embodiment, it may be desirable to detect the presence of DMSO and associated compounds. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention comprises visual color indicators to detect the presence or absence of DMSO metabolites such as DMS.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises core particles that adsorb DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises an adsorbent for adsorbing DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds. The adsorbent comprises an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer. The inner layer comprises adsorbing core particles that adsorb DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said compounds. The intermediate layer, which is optional, contacts the inner layer and the outer layer. The outer layer comprises a porous coating. In some embodiments, the adsorbent may reduce undesired pathogens and odors that are unrelated to DMSO.

In a further embodiment, the adsorbent comprises at least one indicator for indicating the presence of DMSO or related compounds. The indicator comprises permanganate in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the indicator is colored, and is adapted to decrease in color or intensity as DMSO or related compounds are removed. Thus, in one embodiment, color intensity can be correlated to the concentration of undesired compounds or odors. In other embodiments, different colors indicate different levels of undesired odors or compounds.

In one embodiment, the adsorbing core particles are selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: activated carbon, an inorganic oxide, a compound having ion exchange capacity, an ion exchange resin, and a chemical deodorizer.

In one embodiment, the intermediate layer comprises a metal compound and a water-soluble organic material disposed between the core particles and the porous coating.

In one embodiment, the outer layer consists only of a porous coating. In other words, a porous coating is applied directly to the intermediate layer or to the core particles. In other embodiments, the outer layer comprises a layer of material which is additionally coated with a porous coating.

In another embodiment, the outer layer comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a fluororesin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, a polyester resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyolefin resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polysulfone resin, an acrylic resin, a cellulose resin, a vinyl chloride resin, a polyacetal resin, a polyurethane resin and a copolymer or derivative thereof. The polymer may also be selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhexafluoropropylene, polydifluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl fluoride, and a copolymer or derivative thereof.

In one embodiment, the porous coating has a thickness of about 0.01 μm to about 1,000 μm, an average pore diameter of about 0.01 μm to about 500 μm, and/or a porosity of about 3% to about 90%.

In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a method for removing DMSO metabolites, comprising contacting said metabolites with an adsorbent according to any one of the embodiments described herein. The DMSO metabolites may be produced by an individual receiving DMSO treatment. Alternatively, the DMSO metabolites may be degradation products caused by the exposure of DMSO to the environment (e.g., the air or a fluid).

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a method for removing odors associated with DMSO or related compounds, comprising exposing said odors to an adsorbent according to any one of the embodiments described herein.

In yet another embodiment, the invention comprises a clean air member for removal of DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said DMSO or related compounds comprising adsorbent according to any one of the embodiments described herein.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a clean air supply assembly for removal of DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said DMSO or related compounds comprising adsorbent according to any one of the embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an apparatus for removing DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said DMSO or related compounds from the exhaust outlet of a medical respiratory ventilator, wherein said apparatus comprises a gas scavenging device comprising the adsorbent of according to any one of the embodiments described herein. The gas scavenging device is optionally connected to said exhaust outlet.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a face mask for reducing exposure of DMSO or related compounds, or the odors associated with said DMSO or related compounds comprising an adsorbent of according to any one of the preceding claims.

In another embodiment, the face mask filters out undesired odors that are unrelated to DMSO. The face mask may also filter airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. The filtering of these other compounds may be in addition to or instead of the filtering of DMSO and associated compounds. The face mask may be a duckbill-type mask, and may comprise an exhale valve.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a face mask comprising an outer shield layer comprising a synthetic fiber; a copper layer comprising a fiber and powdered copper; a carbon layer comprising a fiber and activated carbon; a chemical layer comprising a fiber and one or more, odor absorbing chemicals; and a facial layer comprising a synthetic fiber. The face mask may contain less than the layers described herein, or may comprise additional layers. The multi-layered face mask may protect a user from pathogens and/or DMSO compounds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an adsorbent according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a rollably positioned, adjustably directable clean air delivery supply assembly and enclosure according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of a “duckbill” type odor-absorbing mask according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of a “duckbill” type mask according to one embodiment, showing the mask partially open.

FIG. 5 shows a surgical mask according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF TILE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Several embodiments of the present invention relates generally to materials for facilitating the administration of DMSO and associated compounds. In some embodiments, these materials comprises adsorbents for the removal of the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism or degradation of DMSO and associated compounds. In other embodiments, these materials comprise clean air members and fabrics that absorb odors or compounds. In further embodiments, these materials comprise a clean air supply assembly for removing odors and compounds. In yet other embodiments, these materials comprises indicators to reveal the presence of these compounds.

Adsorbents

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an adsorbent adapted for the partial or complete removal of the metabolites of DMSO and other compounds, and/or related odors.

In one embodiment, the adsorbent material comprises three layers: an inner layer; an intermediate layer, and an outer layer. In another embodiment, the adsorbent material may comprise one, two, or three of the layers described above. In other embodiments, additional layers are provided. Layers can be fixed or otherwise coupled to one another or to other materials (using, for example, adhesives, sealants, stitches, etc).

In one embodiment, the inner layer comprises core particles containing at least one adsorbing material.

In one embodiment, the intermediate layer comprises at least one porous coating layer including a polymer material that coats the core particles. The intermediate layer may comprise a metal compound and a water-soluble organic material disposed between the core particles and a porous coating layer. The water-soluble organic material is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: polymers of sugar, cellulose derivatives, alginic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, vinylpyrrolidone, vinyl alcohol, oxyolefins, and organic sulfur oxides such as DMSO2 (dimethyl sulfone).

In one embodiment, the outer layer comprises a coating, such as a porous coating layer. In one embodiment, the coating layer may be formed by spraying and applying a suspension or a solution containing a polymer material over the adsorbing material, or by immersing the adsorbing material into the suspension or the solution.

In one embodiment, an adsorbent according to any one of the embodiments described herein preferentially absorbs DMS is provided. In another embodiment, the adsorbent preferentially adsorbs MSM. In other embodiments, the adsorbent adsorbs all odor causing compounds related to DMSO.

The layers, according to some embodiments of the invention, are described below.

The Inner Layer of the Adsorbent

In one embodiment, a material for adsorbing DMSO and associated compounds, and/or the odors related to same comprises an inner layer. FIG. 1 shows the adsorbent material according to one embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1 comprises core particles. The core particles may or may not represent the entire adsorbent material and may comprise one or more of the following: activated carbon, an inorganic oxide, a compound having ion exchange capacity, a modified compound thereof, an ion exchange resin, a chemical deodorizer, silica gel, alumina gel, zeolite, a molecular sieve, diatomaceous earth, inorganic oxide (e.g., copper oxide, iron oxide), chitosan, dextran sulfate, polyallylamine, sulfonated polystyrene resins, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid or a derivative thereof. Combinations of two or more of these compounds are used in some embodiments.

In one embodiment, the compound having ion exchange capacity is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: chitosan, dextran sulfate, polyallylamine, sulfonated polystyrene resins, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid and a derivative thereof.

Mechanisms of adsorption include chemical oxidation or reduction and/or mechanical entrapment. Thus, in one embodiment, the inner layer is an adsorbent that comprises core particles, which adsorb odors or compounds by physically trapping, enclosing, or isolating said odors and compounds. In another embodiment, the inner layer is an adsorbent that comprises core particles, which adsorb odors or compounds by chemically oxidizing or reducing said odors and compounds. In yet another embodiment, undesired odors and compounds are reduced or eliminated because the core particles chemically react with said odors and compounds to render them inert or inactive.

In one embodiment, the core particles have an average particle size of about 0.01 mm to about 100 mm. In one embodiment, the inner layer has a thickness of about 0.1 μm to 1,000 μm. In certain embodiments relating to use of the core particles as an indicator, greater size may provide greater absorbency but lesser sensitivity, and lower size may give inadequate visual indication.

In one embodiment, the core particles are formed by a tableting process.

In one embodiment, the inner layer comprises core particles that are coated. This coating can be the same or different than the outer layer. In one embodiment, the core particles have a porous coating layer having an average pore size of 0.001 μm to 50 μm.

In another embodiment, the core particles are fixed on or otherwise coupled to a member having a one-dimensional structure or a two-dimensional structure.

In one embodiment, the core particles are fixed onto the member having the two-dimensional structure at a density of about 0.1 to about 100,000 particles per 1 cm2 of a surface of said member having the two-dimensional structure.

In one embodiment, the particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are fixed on one surface of said member having the two-dimensional structure, and an adhesive is applied on another surface of said member having the two-dimensional structure.

In one embodiment, the particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are fixed on a member having a three-dimensional structure. In a preferred embodiment, the core particles are fixed onto said three-dimensional structure at a density of about 1 to about 1,000,000 particles per 1 cm3 of a volume of said member having the three-dimensional structure.

In one embodiment, the core particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are fixed to a member in a state of a layer having a thickness of a single particle to about 1,000 particles. In certain embodiments relating to use as a visual indicator, greater density may provide greater adsorbency but lesser sensitivity, and lower density may give inadequate visual indication at some point.

In one embodiment, the core particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are fixed to the member with an adhesive. The adhesive may comprise an organic solvent type adhesive, a water type adhesive, a hot melt type adhesive, or combinations thereof. The member may comprise a portion covered by an air permeable sheet. The member may be entirely wrapped with an air permeable sheet. The member may be contained in an air permeable container. The air permeable container may comprise an unwoven cloth, a woven cloth, a mesh, a net, or combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the core particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are wrapped with an air permeable sheet. In one embodiment, the core particles having said porous coating layer formed thereon are contained in the air permeable sheet in a number of about 1 to about 100,000,000. In certain embodiments, greater density may provide greater adsorbency but lesser sensitivity, and lower density may give inadequate visual indication.

In certain embodiments relating to use of the core particles as an indicator, greater size may provide greater adsorbency but lesser sensitivity, and smaller size may give inadequate visual indication at some point.

The Intermediate Layer of the Adsorbent

In one embodiment, a material for adsorbing DMSO and associated compounds, and/or the odors related to same comprises an intermediate layer. FIG. 1, reference numeral 2 shows the intermediate layer according to one embodiment of the invention. The intermediate layer of the adsorbent may comprise one or more of the following: the oxide, hydroxide, carbonate, sulfates, phosphate, metasilicate, borate, oxalate, tungstate, molybdate, vanadate, chromate, selenate, and manganate of a metal or the metal itself. The metal may also include titanium, zirconium, silicon, zinc, iron, manganese, aluminum, magnesium, nickel, copper, silver, barium, calcium, scandium, bismuth, molybdenum, niobium, neodymium, antimony, selenium, stannum, strontium, terbium, tellurium, thorium, and yttrium.

In another embodiment, the metal compound has a particulate shape having an average particle size of about 0.001 μm to about 50 μm Other shapes and sizes may be used.

In one embodiment, the intermediate layer has a thickness of about 1 μm to about 10,000 μm. In one embodiment, the greater number lending toward more adsorbency but less efficiency of coating use while the lower number contributes to high efficiency of coating use but lower volumetric adsorbency. In certain embodiments, too thin a coating may result in poor indication due to lack of color, and too thick a coating may result in too much adsorption and loss of sensitivity.

The Outer Layer of the Adsorbent

In one embodiment, a material for adsorbing DMSO and associated compounds, and/or the odors related to same comprises an outer layer. FIG. 1, reference numeral 3 shows the outer layer (e.g., porous material) according to one embodiment of the invention. The outer lay may comprises a porous coating layer. The outer layer may comprise one or more of the following: a fluororesin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, a polyester resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyolefin resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polysulfone resin, an acrylic resin, a cellulose resin, a vinyl chloride resin, a polyacetal resin, a polyurethane resin and a copolymer thereof, and a derivative thereof or polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhexafluoropropylene, polydifluoroethylene, polyvinyliden fluoride, polyvinyl fluoride, and a copolymer or derivative thereof. Combinations of two or more of these materials are used in some embodiments.

In one embodiment, the porous coating layer has a thickness of about 0.01 μm to about 1,000 μm. In one embodiment, the greater number lending toward more adsorbency but less efficiency of coating use while the lower number contributes to high efficiency of coating use but lower volumetric adsorbency.

In one embodiment, the porous coating layer has an average pore diameter of about 0.01 μm to about 500 μm and/or has a porosity of about 3% to about 90%. In one embodiment, the porous coating layer is colored.

In one embodiment, a method for producing the adsorbent, or indicating adsorbent, is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises forming the coating layer by applying a liquid containing said polymer material onto a surface of said core particles. The coating layer may be formed by spraying said liquid over said core particles and/or immersing said core particles into said liquid. In one embodiment, the liquid comprises a suspension of said polymer material and/or a solution of said polymer material.

In one embodiment, during said step of forming the coating layer or after said step of forming the coating layer, at least one of a step of heating and a step of decreasing a pressure is carried out to draw said porous coating layer.

In one embodiment, during said step of forming the coating layer or after said step of forming the coating layer, a heating process is carried out so that said coating layer partially shrinks and partially expands.

In one embodiment, the core particles in said step of forming the coating layer are in a water-containing state, in an oil-containing state, or in a frozen state thereof.

In one embodiment, the liquid comprises a pore-forming agent. The pore-forming agent may comprise a water-soluble polymer or oligomer. The water-soluble polymer or oligomer may be selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: cellulose, poly(oxyolefin), polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, a saponification compound of polyvinyl acetate, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, and derivatives thereof. In another embodiment, the water-soluble polymer or oligomer is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: methyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and derivative thereof.

In one embodiment, the pore-forming agent comprises an oil soluble polymer or oligomer. The oil soluble polymer may comprise liquid paraffin.

In one embodiment, the pore-forming agent is removed during or after the step of forming said coating layer. In another embodiment, the pore-forming agent is removed by one or more of the following processes: extraction, evaporation, sublimation or combustion.

In an alternative embodiment, the invention comprises a packed bed containing the adsorbent of one embodiment of the present invention. The packed bed, in some embodiments, functions as a holder for the adsorbent material. The packed bed of adsorbent may be incorporated into a cartridge for containment of the adsorbent material. The cartridge may be in the form of a rectangular, cylindrical or otherwise shaped vessel. The cartridge may be provided in conjunction with a device for introducing air into said rectangular, cylindrical or otherwise shaped vessel, wherein the adsorbent is partially or completely contacted when the air is introduced therein. One of skill in the art will understand that other shapes may also be used according to alternative embodiments of the invention.

Clean Air Member

In one embodiment of the invention, a device and method for cleaning air comprising contacting air with an indoor ambient air cleaning member (such as a cartridge or filter). In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises the adsorbent material described above. In one embodiment, the clean air member adsorbs DMSO and/or DMSO related compounds, and/or odors associated with same. In some embodiments, the clean air member additionally removes one or more undesired compounds from the air that are unrelated to DMSO (e.g., toxic fumes or gases).

In one embodiment, the clean air member (such as a cartridge or filter) comprises an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer, as described above.

The clean air member may be contained in a rectangular, cylindrical or otherwise shaped vessel, and said indoor ambient air cleaning member is freely convected when the air is introduced therein. The vessel may be tilted.

In several embodiments of the invention, the clean air member according to any one of the embodiments described herein is an ambiance odor or sulfur chemical regulating member.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises an odor or sulfur chemical regulating material selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: sodium sulfate, an alkali metal salt of phosphoric acid, an alkali metal salt of hydrogenphosphate, an ammonium salt of phosphoric acid, and an ammonium salt of hydrogen phosphate.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises core particles that comprises a hydrophilic polymer compound. The hydrophilic polymer compound may be selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: vinyl alcohol, vinylpyrrolidone, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, a saponification compound of vinyl acetate, a cellulose ester, an oxyolefin, and a sugar.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises core particles that have an average particle size of about 0.01 mm to about 100 mm.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises core particles comprising at least one odor or sulfur chemical regulating material of an acid salt, and a porous coating layer comprising a polymer material that coats said core particles is provided. The acid salt may be selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: an alkali metal salt, an alkaline earth metal salt, and an ammonium salt.

In one embodiment, the core particles further comprises a hydrophilic polymer compound. The hydrophilic polymer compound may be selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: vinyl alcohol, vinylpyrrolidone, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, a saponification compound of vinyl acetate, a cellulose ester, an oxyolefin, and a sugar.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises a porous coating layer having a thickness of about 0.1 μm to about 1,000 μm and/or average pore size of about 0.001 μm to about 50 μm. The porous coating layer of the clean air member may comprise a silver deposit layer.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises a porous coating layer that comprises material selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a fluororesin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, a polyester resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyolefin resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polysulfone resin, an acrylic resin, a cellulose resin, a vinyl chloride resin, a polyacetal resin, a polyurethane resin, copolymers thereof, and derivative thereof. The porous coating layer may be colored.

In a further embodiment, an adsorbent for removal of respiratory exhalation from a patient treated with DMSO is provided. In yet another embodiment, an adsorbent for removal of DMSO metabolites from a respiratory ventilator or an isolation room ventilator is provided. The adsorbent may be part of the clean air member.

In one embodiment, the clean air member comprises an oxidizing agent. The oxidizing agent is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a mixture of ascorbic acid and an iron-containing compound, permanganates, manganese dioxide, chromates, dichromates, osmium tetraoxide, ruthenium tetraoxide, silver oxide and palladium chloride. In one embodiment, the iron-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: iron chloride, iron bromide, iron iodide, iron oxide, iron perchlorate, iron thiocyanate, iron sulfate, iron sulfide, iron acetate, iron oxalate, Mohr's salt, di-iron monophosphide and tri-iron monophosphide.

Fabrics

In several embodiments of the present invention, a fabric that reduces or eliminates the odor of DMSO and associated compounds is provided. In one embodiment, the fabric comprises odor adsorbing woven or non-woven fabric suitable for the manufacture of clothing, bedding and other protective items capable of the partial or complete capture of the metabolites of DMSO and others. Adsorption may include chemical oxidation, reduction, physical entrapment in fissures, or other means. The adsorbent fabric may include adsorbent fibers or fibers coated with an adsorbent or it may be layered with adsorbent material between the layers. Finally, the fabric may incorporate any or all of these modes of odor capture simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the fabric comprises a three dimensional web. In one embodiment, the basic fiber support structure of the three dimensional web comprises woven or non-woven web of the fibers of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyamide, nylon, polyacrilan, rayon, silk, ramey, cellulosic material and any other suitable fibrous material or material which may be made fibrous. Intermediate layers may comprise knit or randomly formed copper, aluminum, iron, glass, carbon, or other inorganic fibers. Each layer may be formed on a knitting, weaving, moving web, fluid dispersion, or other device. Layers may be combined following the forming of each or one or more layers may be formed as they are layered. Layers may be adhered together by crosslinking, hot melt stitching, sewing, gluing, or other methods well known in the art.

In one embodiment, the odor adsorbing fibers of the fabric may comprise a modified polyamine which comprises a hybrid inorganic/organic material comprising a polyamine and an inorganic oxide. The polyamine may comprise one or more of the following: amine-containing polysaccharides, amine-containing polypeptides, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), poly(diallylamine), poly(allylamine), copolymers of diallylamine and allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine or allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine and allylamine, and condensation polymers formed from polyamine monomers and monomers with two or more amine-reactive groups, poly(lysine), polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), polymers containing diallylamine, and polymers containing allylamine, amine-containing polysaccharides, amine-containing polypeptides, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), poly(diallylamine), poly(allylamine), copolymers of diallylamine and allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine or allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine and allylamine, and condensation polymers formed from polyamine monomers and monomers with two or more amine-reactive groups, poly(lysine), polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), polymers containing diallylamine, and polymers containing allylamine, amine-containing polysaccharides, amine-containing polypeptides, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), poly(diallylamine), poly(allylamine), copolymers of diallylamine and allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine or allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine and allylamine, and condensation polymers formed from polyamine monomers and monomers with two or more amine-reactive groups, poly(lysine), polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), polymers containing diallylamine, and polymers containing allylamine, amine-containing polysaccharides, amine-containing polypeptides, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), poly(diallylamine), poly(allylamine), copolymers of diallylamine and allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine or allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine and allylamine, and condensation polymers formed from polyamine monomers and monomers with two or more amine-reactive groups, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), polymers containing diallylamine, and polymers containing allylamine or a nanostructured polyamine which comprises a polyamine reacted with one or more crosslinkers. MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) adsorbents may also be included as coatings, admixtures of the above or alone. In one embodiment, MSM is both a metabolite of DMSO and used as an adsorbent. In this embodiment, the MSM used as the adsorbent is substantially odorless and can adsorb odorous DMS (which can be obtained from DMSO through reduction, potentially in an anaerobic metabolic environment), and other odorous compounds that result from DMSO metabolism. In embodiments where the two main metabolites of DMSO are DMS and MSM, exogenous MSM can be used as an adsorbent alone or in combination with other adsorbents. MSM may also be used to adsorb sulfur contain compounds that are related or unrelated to DMSO.

In one embodiment, the odor adsorbing coatings of the fibers, the cross linking members or the intermediate layers of a multilayer fabric may comprise one or more of the following: activated carbon, an inorganic oxide, a compound having ion exchange capacity, a modified compound thereof, an ion exchange resin, a chemical deodorizer, silica gel, alumina gel, zeolite, a molecular sieve, diatomaceous earth, copper oxide, iron oxide, chitosan, dextran sulfate, polyallylamine, sulfonated polystyrene resins, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid or a derivative thereof. Further, these odor adsorbing coatings may comprise a fluororesin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, a polyester resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyolefin resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polysulfone resin, an acrylic resin, a cellulose resin, a vinyl chloride resin, a polyacetal resin, a polyurethane resin and a copolymer thereof, and a derivative thereof or polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhexafluoropropylene, polydifluoroethylene, polyvinyliden fluoride, polyvinyl fluoride, and a copolymer thereof. They may also consist partially or fully of the oxide, hydroxide, carbonate, sulfates, phosphate, metasilicate, borate, oxalate, tungstate, molybdate, vanadate, chromate, selenate, and manganate of a metal or the metal itself selected from the group consisting of: titanium, zirconium, silicon, zinc, iron, manganese, aluminum, magnesium, nickel, copper, silver, barium, calcium, scandium, bismuth, molybdenum, niobium, neodymium, antimony, selenium, stannum, strontium, terbium, tellurium, thorium, yttrium, and combinations thereof. MSM adsorbents may also be included as coatings, admixtures of the above or alone.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a modified polyamine comprising: a hybrid inorganic/organic material comprising a polyamine and an inorganic material having one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of: amorphous structures, high surface areas, large pore volumes, and nanocrystalline structures. In one embodiment, the inorganic material is an inorganic oxide material.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a modified polyamine comprising a polyamine impregnated into or attached to a porous inorganic or organic microbead. In one embodiment, the polyamine is coupled to one or more microbeads.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a modified polyamine which comprises a polyamine having inorganic molecules or organic molecules, or both, chemically attached to it.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a modified polyamine which comprises a bio-compatible copolymer of a polyamine and a dermatologically compatible aqueous-soluble and/or oil-soluble polymer.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a nanostructured polyamine which comprises a polyamine reacted with one or more crosslinkers.

In one embodiment, the polyamine is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: amine-containing polysaccharides, amine-containing polypeptides, polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), poly(diallylamine), poly(allylamine), copolymers of diallylamine and allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine or allylamine, copolymers containing diallylamine and allylamine, and condensation polymers formed from polyamine monomers and monomers with two or more amine-reactive groups.

In another embodiment, the polyamine is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: poly(lysine), polyethylenimine, polyethylenimine derivatives, poly(vinylamine), polymers containing diallylamine, and polymers containing allylamine.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an article comprising: a liquid pervious topsheet; a backsheet; and an absorbent core intermediate between said backsheet and said topsheet. In one embodiment, the absorbent core comprises from about 0.5 g/m2 to about 500 g/m2 of a cationic polysaccharide comprising an aminopolysaccharide selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: chitosan, chitosan salt, crosslinked chitosan and a mixture thereof; and from about 0.1 g/m2 to about 250 g/m2 of an acidic pH buffering means having a pH in the range of from about 3.5 to about 6.5 and comprises a weak acid having its pKa or at least one of its pKas in the range from about 3.5 to about 6.5 and its conjugate base; and from about 5 g/m2 to about 250 g/m2 of absorbent gelling material.

In one embodiment, the cationic polysaccharide is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: chitosan, chitosan salt, crosslinked chitosan and a mixture thereof having a degree of deacetylation of more than about 75%.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an additional odor control agent selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: zeolites, silicates, activated carbons, diatomaceous earth, cyclodextrine, clay, chelating agents, ion exchange resins, perfumes and mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the level of the additional odor control agent or a mixture thereof is from about 0.5 g/m2 to about 600 g/m2.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method of controlling odor associated with DMSO and related odorous metabolites wherein said bodily fluids are contacted with an odor control system comprising a cationic polysaccharide, selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: chitosan, chitosan salt, crosslinked chitosan and a mixture thereof, and an acid pH buffering means typically having a pH in the range of about 3.5 to 6.5.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an odor eliminating fiber structure having an indicator comprising a fiber substrate containing odor eliminating fibers, a surface thereof being visibly determined for change of odor eliminating power with a difference between a color of the fiber substrate discoloring through adsorption of a smelling gas and a color of a standard color display part.

In one embodiment, the color of the standard color display part provided on the surface of the fiber substrate becomes difficult to be distinguished by discoloration of the fiber substrate through adsorption of a smelling gas.

In one embodiment, the color difference between the color of the fiber substrate upon losing the odor eliminating power and the color of the standard color display part provided on the surface of the fiber substrate is 4 or more grades upon evaluation with gray scale for assessing change in color.

In one embodiment, the odor eliminating fibers contain at least one odor eliminating component selected from silver, copper and a metallic compound thereof, and a content of silver and/or copper is 0.1% by weight or more of the total fiber substrate.

In one embodiment, the odor eliminating fibers comprises an odor eliminating component-containing crosslinked acrylate fibers containing at least one odor eliminating component selected from silver, copper and a metallic compound thereof, and content of a silver and/or copper is 0.1% by weight or more of the total acrylate fibers.

In one embodiment, one surface of the fiber substrate has an easy-sticking and easy-releasing function.

The odor-absorbing fabric may be used in the manufacture of a disposable absorbent article selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a patient bedcover, patient gown, caregiver scrubs, gowns, masks, or any other required item to be worn or used to protect the patient or staff or visitors.

The patient bedding may comprise one or more of the following: suitably large sheets of odor absorbing material which may be coated partially or fully with slightly adhering material to prevent slippage. They may be assembled using methods well known in the art of clothing manufacture, including thermal, ultrasonic or electronic sealing, hot melt, adhesives, sewing, multineedle sewing, serging, basting, binding, or other joining methods. Seams may be folded, lapped, flat felled, straight stitched, frenched, overcast, enclosed, bound, hemmed, reinforced, top stitched, or other suitable seaming method. This bedding can be used at all times while the patient is undergoing treatment using DMSO and related compounds.

The clothing and mask items for the patient and for the caregivers may be shaped and formed to provide the maximum freedom of movement and access. These items may be constructed of cut sheets of odor absorbing material and may include ties, belts, snaps, or other fasteners to maintain the position of the article. These items may be assembled using thermal, ultrasonic or electronic sealing, hot melt, adhesives, sewing, multineedle sewing, serging, basting, binding, or other joining methods. Seams may be folded, lapped, flat felled, straight stitched, frenched, overcast, enclosed, bound, hemmed, reinforced, top stitched, or other suitable seaming method. These items can be used at all times while the patient is undergoing treatment using DMSO and related compounds. The clothing and mask items described herein may comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method of providing disposable, strong, absorbent DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing health care bedding which comprises providing DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing fabric plus a non-woven fabric comprised of randomly entangled mixtures of natural and synthetic fibers interconnected so that the individual fibers are held in place to form a coherent, stable, strong fabric having a high absorbency capacity; cutting the fabric to the desired length in the cross direction; and converting said fabric to a desired size and shape. Such material may also comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the natural fiber is cellulosic wood pulp. In one embodiment, the synthetic fiber is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: a polyester, a nylon, a rayon, a polypropylene and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the synthetic fiber is polyester.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method of providing disposable strong, absorbent DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing health care bedding which comprises employing as the bedding material DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing fabric principally composed of polyester fibers combined with cellulosic wood pulp fibers, said fibers locked into place by a three-dimensional fiber entanglement wherein the individual fibers are intertwined, tangled and interconnected to each other so as to be virtually inseparable, said fabric having an absorptive capacity of at least that of woven fabric made of natural fibers, cutting the fabric to a desired length in the cross direction, and converting said cut fabric to a desired size and shape. Such material may also comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the fabric has a weight of about 0.5 to about 10 ounces per square yard.

In one embodiment, after cutting said bedding material in the cross (CD) direction, a strip of elastic is attached along the edges to provide a close fit to a platform it is to cover. The platform may be a six-sided gurney.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method of providing disposable, strong, moisture absorbent DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing health care bed and gurney coverings comprising: employing as the bedding material DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing fabric principally composed of polyester fibers combined with cellulosic wood pulp fibers, said fibers interlocked by a three-dimensional fiber entanglement, wherein the individual fibers are intertwined, tangled and interconnected to each other so as to be virtually inseparable, and wherein said fabric has an absorptive capacity higher than that of conventional bedding made from cotton-polyester blends. In another embodiment, the method further comprises cutting across the fabric and converting said bedding material to a desired shape suitable for a gurney covering, so that its strongest direction is along the cut direction of the covering. Such material may also comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

A breathable DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing composite having hydrostatic head according to IST 80.4-92 of at least about 4 inches comprising a laminate of at least one fibrous, nonwoven web layer and at least one thermoplastic film layer, the laminate being stretched no more than about 5% in a lengthwise and widthwise direction, and wherein the film layer comprises at least one thermoplastic resin, a finely divided particulate material capable of promoting breathability, and a plurality of point-like deformations which provide breathability of the composite, wherein the breathable composite has a breathability of at least about 500 g/m2/day. Such material may also comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the composite has a MVTR of at least about 500 g/m2/day, wherein the laminate can be stretched to less than about 5% lengthwise or widthwise stretching.

In one embodiment, the fibrous nonwoven web layer comprises filaments comprising at least one polyolefin resin.

In one embodiment, the thermoplastic film layer comprises at least one polyolefin resin.

In one embodiment, the thermoplastic film layer comprises at least one polyolefin resin and the nonwoven web layer comprises filaments comprising at least one polyolefin resin.

In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer has substantial segments of filaments unadhered to the film layer whereby a cloth texture suitable for diaper and apparel uses is provided on at least one surface of the composite.

In one embodiment, the composite has a hydrostatic head of at least about 7 inches.

In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the thermoplastic film layer comprises at least one polyethylene resin. In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the thermoplastic, breathable film layer comprises at least one polypropylene resin.

In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the filaments comprises at least one polyethylene or polypropylene resin. In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the filaments comprises at least one polyethylene resin.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a breathable composite DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing material comprising a laminate comprising at least one film layer and at least one nonwoven web layer, the laminate being no more than insignificantly stretched in a lengthwise and widthwise direction, and wherein the nonwoven web layer comprises filaments of at least one polyolefin resin, and the film layer comprises a polyolefin resin, a finely divided particulate material capable of promoting breathability, and a plurality of embossed, point-like deformations, such deformations providing breathability of the composite by occupying about 8 to about 40% of the area of a surface of the composite and being present on such surface at a density of about 100 to 500 points per square inch. Such material may also comprise any or all of the DMSO and related odorous metabolite capturing capabilities and features of embodiments described herein.

In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the film layer comprises at least one polyethylene resin.

In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises a web of substantially continuous filaments.

In one embodiment, the filaments comprise at least one polypropylene resin. In one embodiment, the filaments of the web of substantially continuous filaments provide a cloth texture to said nonwoven web layer on at least one surface of the composite. In one embodiment, the filaments comprise at least one polyethylene resin. In one embodiment, the filaments of the web of substantially continuous filaments provide a cloth texture to said nonwoven web layer on at least one surface of the composite.

In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises a web of staple fibers.

In one embodiment, the staple fibers comprise at least one polypropylene resin. In one embodiment, the staple fibers of the web of staple fibers provide a cloth texture to said nonwoven web layer on at least one surface of the composite. In one embodiment, the staple fibers comprise at least one polyethylene resin.

In one embodiment, the staple fibers of the web of staple fibers provide a cloth texture to said nonwoven web layer on at least one surface of the composite.

In one embodiment, the polyolefin resin of the film layer comprises at least one polypropylene resin.

In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises a web of substantially continuous filaments comprising at least one polypropylene resin. In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises staple fibers comprising at least one polypropylene resin. In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises a web of substantially continuous filaments comprising at least one polyethylene resin. In one embodiment, the nonwoven web layer comprises staple fibers comprising at least one polyethylene resin.

In another embodiment, the adsorbent materials/fibers described herein are incorporated into one or more portions of a disposable gown for DMSO treated medical patients, such as the gown described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,819,275, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This patent describes a disposable, double-breasted gown for medical patients formed, without sewing, of non-woven synthetic plastic fabric sheeting which is soft and ultrasonically sealable, said gown comprising: a body formed from a rectangular blank having a straight upper long edge that is die cut to form chamfered corners on either side, an off-center arcuate neck indentation and isosceles triangular arm hole indentations on the left and right sides of the arcuate indentation, the resultant straight edge shoulder segments formed between the corners and the indentations all having the same length and a common line, the peaks of the triangular indentations being aligned with parallel left and right transverse fold lines that define between the lines a rear gown section on one side of which is a relatively narrow left-front section and on the other side of which is a broad right-front section, the left-front section being folded over the rear section and the right-front section being folded over the folded left-front section to overlap this section, the straight edge segments of the left and right front sections being ultrasonically seamed to the corresponding segments of the rear section to define left and right arm holes; and a pair of sleeves whose inlets are ultrasonically seamed to the arm holes of the body, each sleeve being formed of a relatively small rectangular blank having at its upper edge an isosceles triangular indentation whose peak is aligned with a center transverse fold line, and having a straight lower edge, such that when this blank is folded in half, and the folded over lower straight edge is ultrasonically seamed, this creates a tubular sleeve having an inlet which is ultrasonically seamed to the arm holes of the body of the gown.

In one embodiment, the adsorbent materials/fibers described herein are incorporated into one or more portions of a surgical gown or scrubs for caregivers of DMSO treated patients, such as the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,171,542, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The gown described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,171,542 has sleeves, a front portion having a chest area covering the chest of the user and side portions which close and overlap at the back of the user, a bib affixed about its periphery to the inside surface of the surgical gown at the chest area with a portion of the bib inwardly of the periphery remaining unsecured to the gown, the chest area having a pair of spaced, substantially vertical slits formed therein within the confines of the peripheral portions of the bib, the slits communicating with the unsecured portion of the bib and being of a length to allow passage of the user's hands therethrough whereby the bib provides a sterile hand support pocket maintaining the user's hands in the aseptic zone bounded by the user's neck, shoulders and waist line.

In another embodiment, the adsorbent materials/fibers described herein are incorporated into one or more portions of a disposable face mask for caregivers of DMSO treated patients. Exemplary masks include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,055,982; 5,765,556 and 5,322,061, herein incorporated by reference. In general, the masks described in these patents comprise a filter body having an opening sized to cover the nose and mouth of a wearer, the body having top and bottom edges with the top edge arranged to extend across the nose of the wearer and the bottom edge arranged to extend under the chin of the wearer; the top edge having ends opposite from each other and the bottom edge having ends opposite from each other; first securing means attached to the filter body adjacent to each end of the top edge and arranged to extend generally about the back of the head of the wearer in an approximate linear continuation from the top edge, the first securing means for urging the top edge into tight engagement with the wearer to prevent fluid flow between the top edge and the wearer; second securing means attached to the filter body adjacent to each end of the bottom edge and arranged to extend generally over the top of the head of the wearer in an approximate linear continuation from the bottom edge, the second securing means for urging the bottom edge into tight engagement with the wearer to prevent fluid flow between the bottom edge and the wearer; the filter body comprising an upper portion of generally trapezoidal configuration having a longer side forming the top edge and a lower portion of generally trapezoidal configuration having a longer side forming the bottom edge; the upper and lower portions being joined along all remaining sides; a plurality of radii formed on opposite sides of the filter body extending from the opening; a first strip of sealing material disposed within the filter body adjacent to the opening and extending along the top edge; a second strip of sealing material disposed within the filter body adjacent to the opening and extending along the bottom edge; and the first sealing strip and the second sealing strip cooperating with each other to form a fluid barrier between the opening of the filter body and the face of the wearer.

In one embodiment, color changes indicate adsorption. Color changes upon adsorbing odors may be tested as follows based on several methods, including but not limited to that described in US Patent Publication No. 20030190266, herein incorporated by reference:

Color of

Visibility of

Color

fiber substrate

display part

difference

Odor eliminating

Odor eliminating

on saturated

power (%)

power (%)

adsorption

100

0

100

75

50

30

0

(grade)

Example 1

light beige

light

1

1

2

3

4

—

umber

Compara-

—

white

no odor

—

tive

eliminating power

Example 1

Example 2

light beige

light

4

3

3

2

1

4-5

umber

Example 3

light dark

brown

4

3

2

2

1

4-5

green

Example 4

Beige

umber

4

3

2

2-1

1

4-5

Example 5

very light

beige

3

3

2

2

1

4-5

beige

Mask

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a mask that is designed to reduce, eliminate or shield the user from odors associated with DMSO and related compounds. Embodiments described above that relate to the fabric may be used to construct some embodiments of the mask.

In one embodiment, the mask comprises one or more layers. The face mask may be a “duckbill” type mask (FIGS. 3-4), or surgical mask (FIG. 5). In one embodiment, an exhale valve comprising two flat strips of elastomer is installed in place of the entire seam at the bottom of the duckbill mask which has a large cross-sectional area when open. The surgical masks may also comprise one or more odor-masking “scratch and sniff” patches which release one or more pleasant odors when abraded. Such odors include lemon, perfume, peppermint, vanilla and the like. These patches may be square, circular rectangular or any other desired shape.

In one embodiment, the layers include from outer (distal to the face) to inner (proximal to the face): 1) outer shield; 2) copper layer; 3) carbon layer; 4) chemical layer; and 5) facial layer. In another embodiment, the mask comprises one or more of these layers. The layers need not be present in the order identified above.

The outer shield may provide N95 or N99 filtration. In one embodiment, the mask filters at least about 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 99%, 99.9%, or 100% of airborne particles. The outer shield layer may comprise 100% synthetic fiber. Examples of synthetic fibers include those described herein, and other synthetic fibers well known in the art (e.g., polyester, rayon, acrylic, nylon, dacron).

The copper layer may act as a catalytic converter. The copper layer may comprise one or more fibers and powdered copper. In one embodiment, the fiber comprises about 40% wood pulp and about 60% synthetic fiber. The powdered copper may be present on the fiber in an amount ranging from about 100%, w/w to about 500% w/w, preferably from about 200% w/w to about 400% w/w, and more preferably about 250% w/w.

The carbon layer may comprise activated charcoal and acts as an odor adsorber. In one embodiment, the carbon layer comprises two sub-layers: activate charcoal adsorber I and activated charcoal adsorber II. The carbon layer may comprise one or more fibers and activated carbon. In one embodiment, the fiber comprises about 40% wood pulp and about 60% synthetic fiber. The activated carbon may be present on the fiber in an amount ranging from about 100% w/w to about 500% w/w, preferably from about 200% w/w to about 400% w/w, and more preferably about 250% w/w. One or more types of activated carbon may be incorporated into the carbon layer. In one embodiment, the following Chemsorb activated carbon compositions are used: 1202-70 G12 (for acid gases), 620-70 G12 (for ammonia and amines), 1505-70 G12 (for aldehydes) and 1000-70 (for organic vapors).

The chemical layer may allow breath-activated odor removal. The chemical layer comprises one or more fibers and one or more odor-removing chemicals, which may be breath-activated, such as citric acid, chitosan, MSM and other compounds. In one embodiment, the chitosan, citric acid and MSM may be present on the fiber in amounts of about 50% w/w, about 40% w/w and about 30% w/w, with the remainder being one or more other compounds.

The facial layer may provide soft facial protection. The facial layer may comprise 100% synthetic fiber. In one embodiment, natural fibers are used, alone or in combination with synthetic fibers.

In one embodiment, the mask is made by placing the coatings on separate layers prior to forming the masks on the same multi-sheet airlay machine.

Clean Air Supply Assembly

In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a system for removing odors and chemicals resulting from the treatment of patients with DMSO and related compounds. In one embodiment, this system is a clean air supply assembly.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a rollably positioned, adjustably directable clean air supply assembly and enclosure for use in DMSO treated medical patient environments. The clean air supply assembly provides, in some embodiments, localized clean air free of the odors, DMS (dimethyl sulfide) and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and DMSO associated compounds including, but not limited to, hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan.

In one embodiment, the clean air supply assembly comprises a fully portable device providing for the effective capture and movement of room air through an adsorbent material suitable for the complete removal of the metabolites of DMSO and other related compounds. This device may have battery power for backup or for use while moving a patient. In one embodiment, the device is capable of turning any hospital room into a virtual clean room.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a portable curtaining containment system which may encompass the patient's upper torso or the entire patient bed area with provisions for caregiver access is provided.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a rollably positioned, passable through doorways, adjustably directable clean air supply assembly which provides air free of the metabolites of DMSO and others for use in an area where a patient is being treated using DMSO and associated compounds. The clean air supply assembly may comprise one or more of a base module, a powered air moving assembly and a filtration system.

The clean air supply assembly 4 is shown schematically in FIG. 2 and comprises a rollable support assembly 19 having wheels 21. Attached to the platform are a power supply unit 5 powering an electronics package 7 providing either DC or AC power depending on the motor selected. In one embodiment, the power supply unit 5 comprises a battery with a charger. An internal or external chemical and/or odor filter and adsorbent cartridge 9 containing an adsorbent is mounted on platform 19 adjacent power supply unit 5 and electronics package 7.

In one embodiment, the adsorbent cartridge 9 follows the air moving assembly and is capable of removing metabolites of DMSO and other related compounds, and may incorporate visual indication of depletion of such metabolites. The adsorbent may be augmented or replaced by ultraviolet lamps and/or ozone (e.g., ozone injection) to further or fully remove odors, DMS, methyl mercaptan and/or hydrogen sulfide and other chemicals.

In one embodiment, clean air supply assembly 4 directs a controlled amount of clean grade air through an adjustably oriented top hood assembly 11 which contains a pre-filter 13 and a sealed final filter 15 (e.g., high efficiency particle arrestor (HEPA) filter) which may be mounted within the lower portion of the base 14 or within the top final filter hood assembly 11. This final filter 15 filters the air and allows the discharge of the air at minimal-eddy creating air velocities for improved air quality levels, which creates certifiable cleanrooms, clean zones, improved recirculated air quality within an given area, where a patient is being treated with DMSO. The clean air supply assembly 4 is shown optionally attached to a patient isolation unit 17.

In one embodiment, the clean air supply assembly is a modification of the clean air supply assembly shown in FIG. 2 of U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,607, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In this device, the rollable support assembly in U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,607 is extended in a direction opposite the hood top assembly 328, and the battery/power module/adsorbent cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 2 of the present application is placed on, or attached to, the rollable support assembly. This device may be attached to a wheelchair or gurney via a wheelchair/gurney attachment, and filters odors and chemicals resulting from DMSO treatment of a patient.

The clean air supply assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention may also be attached to a patient isolation unit comprising a frame body foldable and/or capable of being disassembled; and a flexible envelope adapted to be detachably attached to the frame body as assembled as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,607. The patient isolation unit may also comprise a collapsible framework constructed of rods pivotally joined at their ends to hubs to form a self-standing unit when expanded and to fold into a small set of nearly parallel rods when folded as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,986,016 and 5,125,205, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In another embodiment, the exhauster device 5 shown in FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 6,966,937, herein incorporated by reference, is modified by extending the rollable support assembly in a direction opposite exhaust duct 4 and the battery/power module/adsorbent cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 2 of the present application is placed on, or attached to, the rollable support assembly. The device may then be attached to a patient isolation unit to filter odors and chemicals resulting from DMSO treatment of a patient.

The patient isolation unit may include an integral patient isolation curtain rod, or a separate foldable frame body, and a flexible envelope made of a natural or polymeric porous or nonporous film, knit, woven or non-woven sheet which can be attached to the assembled frame body, which may or may not include a bottom.

In one embodiment, the patient isolation assembly includes a low cost disposable curtain to be affixed to the patient privacy curtain, or to an inexpensive plastic frame.

Indicator

The present invention also provides a visual color indicator, particularly a metal permanganate visual color indicator material suitable for the detection of DMS and other metabolites of DMSO. In one embodiment, sulfides such as DMS are oxidized by potassium permanganate to produce sulfone with the resulting reduction of the permanganate ion eliminating its characteristically intense purple color. The indicator may be included in any one of the layers of the adsorbant described herein, or in an additional layer on a base layer having one, two, or three parts. In one embodiment, an indicator for DMS and the metabolites of DMSO and other related compounds includes core particles containing an adsorbing material as described herein in which the intermediate layer comprises one or more indicators and a metal or other compound, and is disposed between the core particles and the porous coating layer. The structure and components of the core particles are described in detail above. Visual indicators other than color may also be used. One or more indicators may be included within a layer, on the inner surface of a layer, on an outer surface of a layer, or integral with one of the layers.

In another embodiment, the present invention comprises a system which includes a transparent container with a packed bed containing the detecting indicator of the present invention. In one embodiment, the packed bed functions as a holder for the indicator material and may be separate from, or included in, an indicating adsorbent bed utilized for the removal of DMS and other DMSO metabolites. In one embodiment, as the indicator is exposed to DMS, methyl mercaptan and related materials, it becomes progressively lighter and the lightening progresses through the bed.

In a further embodiment, the present invention includes a personal monitor comprising one or more detecting indicators to sample airborne contaminants by the process of diffusion. Exposure levels may then be compared to permissible exposure limits published in health and safety standards. In one embodiment, the lighter the personal monitoring patch, the greater exposure is indicated.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes a standard format ambient air sampling tube for a standard air sampling pump such tube containing the detecting indicator. In one embodiment, the longer the lightened area, the more DMS, methyl mercaptan or other sulfide detected.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a functional ambiance odor or sulfur chemical or DMS indicating and/or regulating member comprising the ambiance odor or sulfur chemical regulating member.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises an ambiance odor or sulfur chemical or DMS indicating and/or regulating member, comprising core particles containing at least one odor or sulfur chemical regulating material of an acid salt, and a porous coating layer including a polymer material that coats said core particles, wherein the acid salt is at least one of an alkali metal salt, an alkaline earth metal salt, and an ammonium salt.

In one embodiment, the odor or sulfur chemical regulating material is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: sodium sulfate, an alkali metal salt of phosphoric acid, an alkali metal salt of hydrogen phosphate, an ammonium salt of phosphoric acid, and an ammonium salt of hydrogen phosphate.

In one embodiment, the core particles further contains a hydrophilic polymer compound. In one embodiment, the hydrophilic polymer compound is selected from the group consisting of one or more of the following: vinyl alcohol, vinylpyrrolidone, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, a saponification compound of vinyl acetate, a cellulose ester, an oxyolefin, and a sugar.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises any or all of the above indicting absorbents incorporated into a personal monitor sampling, detecting, and indicating airborne DMS and other odorous compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds by the process of diffusion.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises any or all of the above indicting absorbents incorporated into a standard format ambient air sampling tube for a standard air sampling pump such tube containing the detecting indicator for indicating airborne DMS and other odorous compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds.

EXAMPLES

The following examples describe non-limiting uses of the compositions, methods and apparatus described herein.

In one embodiment, a device to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds directly from the patient's exhaled respiratory air is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the device (e.g., the adsorbent) is directly connected to the patient's mask. In one embodiment, this may require treating the highest concentration of odor bearing material.

In one embodiment, an apparatus to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the exhaust outlet of a medical respiratory ventilator is provided. In another embodiment, the device is connected to the ventilator's exhaust outlet through a gas scavenging device. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a gas scavenging device comprising the adsorbent described herein, wherein the gas scavenging device is connected to the exhaust outlet. Thus, the DMSO metabolite-containing exhaust leaving the ventilator passes through the adsorbent which filters out the metabolites and odors, resulting in air that does not contain the odors associated with the metabolites.

In one embodiment, a device to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the recirculated or vented stream a room sized HVAC or clean room system is provided. In one embodiment, the device (e.g., the adsorbent) is connected to the system's ductwork.

In one embodiment, an adsorbent to be adhered to or sandwiched between three dimensional fiber material as in fabric, cloth, felt, nonwoven or other flexible material to become part of clothing, bedding, masks and other items used by the patient or the medical staff is provided.

An article of patient bed covering to capture the odors and compounds emanating from the dermal areas of the patient and resulting from the metabolism of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and associated compounds is provided.

An article of patient clothing to capture the odors and compounds emanating from the dermal areas of the patient's body and resulting from the metabolism of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and associated compounds is also provided.

An article of caregiver clothing to capture the odors and compounds emanating from all areas of the patient including respiration and resulting from the metabolism of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and associated compounds is provided.

A caregiver mask to reduce and/or prevent the breathing by the caregiver of the odors and compounds emanating all areas of the patient including respiration and resulting from the metabolism of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and associated compounds is provided.

A device to remove the odors, DMS, methyl mercaptan and/or hydrogen sulfide and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds directly from the area around a patient (e.g., the patient's upper torso) is provided. The flexible patient isolation assembly may or may not be connected to the clean air delivery assembly's top final filter hood assembly.

A device to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the entire patient bed area with or without enough space for caregiver occupancy of the patient isolation assembly is provided. The clean air delivery assembly device may be connected to the patient isolation assembly sized to enclose only the bed or to provide caregiver access.

A device to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the entire patient room is provided. The clean air delivery assembly may positioned with the top final filter hood assembly over the patient or preferably within the room should the patient be served by another unit.

A device to remove the odors and compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds directly from the area around the patient's wheelchair or gurney is provided. The portable clean air delivery assembly device may be connected to the wheelchair or gurney by means of clamps, straps or other suitable means. The flexible patient isolation assembly may or may not be connected to the clean air delivery assembly's top final filter hood assembly.

A device to indicate the presence of DMS and other odorous compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds directly from the patient's exhaled respiratory air is provided. Such compounds may be detected in concentrations of about 1 to about 10,000 parts per million. The device may be directly connected to the patient's mask.

A device to indicate the presence of DMS and other odorous compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the exhaust of a medical respiratory ventilator is provided. Such compounds may be detected in concentrations of about 1 to about 1,000 parts per million. The device may be integral to or connected to an adsorber located on the ventilator's discharge or directly on the ventilator's discharge through a gas scavenging device.

A device to indicate the presence of DMS and other odorous compounds resulting from the metabolism of DMSO and associated compounds from the recirculated or vented stream from a room sized HVAC or clean room system is provided. Such compounds may be detected in concentrations of about 1 to about 10 parts per million. The device may be connected to the system's ductwork.

An indicating adsorbent included in a personal monitor containing the detecting indicator and sampling airborne contaminants by the process of diffusion is provided. Such compounds may be detected in concentrations of about 1 to about 1,000 parts per million. In some embodiments, such personal monitor may be pinned, clipped, or otherwise affixed to the clothing or person of the staff, visitors or patients in the medical facility.

An indicating adsorbent included in a standard format ambient air sampling tube for a standard air sampling pump such tube containing the detecting indicator is provided. Such compounds may be detected in concentrations of about 1 to about 10,000 parts per million. Such sampling may be from the patient's bed area, the room, the respiratory ventilator, the room's HVAC system, or other location.

It will be understood by those of skill in the art that numerous and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that the forms of the present invention are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

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